The Peter Kearns Memorial Christmas Tree Toss raised $3,277 for Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley during its 2025 event, held Dec. 20 at More Miles Automotive in Bethlehem.

The funds raised will support Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley’s confidential and no-cost services for survivors of domestic and intimate partner abuse throughout Lehigh and Northampton counties.

What began in 2002 as a friendly challenge between the late Peter Kearns and Mike DeCrosta has grown into one of the Lehigh Valley’s most recognizable holiday fundraisers. Each year, community members gather to toss retired Christmas trees for distance, with every donation contributing directly to local support services.

After briefly pausing following Kearns’ retirement in 2013, the Tree Toss returned in 2015 and has continued to grow. The event now attracts participants and spectators from across the region and has received both regional and national attention for its unique combination of humor, tradition, and charitable impact.

“The goal has always been to raise money for Turning Point,” said Mike DeCrosta, service manager at More Miles Automotive. “The competition is fun, but what really matters is that the community shows up year after year to support people who need help. Raising over $3,200 this year is something everyone involved should be proud of.”

The 2025 event featured music, refreshments, giveaways, and friendly participation from local first responders. Children were able to take part using smaller trees, and prizes were awarded for notable throws throughout the morning.

Community support is critical to Turning Point’s work, according to Panayota Papadopoulos, Training and Education Advocate at Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley.

“Events like the Tree Toss make a real difference for us,” Papadopoulos said. “We are a relatively small organization serving two counties, and community fundraisers help ensure our services remain available at no cost to survivors and their families.”

Donations benefiting Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley may still be made online at turningpointlv.org/get-involved/donate/

Organizers thanked the community for its continued support and noted that planning is already underway to build on this year’s success.

Watch the recap Video at youtube.com/shorts/sKc6DxsOWrw

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